What Is The Capital Of Sierra Leone?

Freetown is the most populous and capital city of Sierra Leone. The city, located in the western area of the country, has a shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean. The city is ethnically and culturally diverse and religious tolerance is practiced by the city’s population. Freetown experiences a tropical monsoon climate with a rainy season and a dry season. The former lasts from May to October. Temperature is high throughout the year and averages around 27 °C. The rainy season begins and ends with heavy thunderstorms.

History Of The Capital Of Sierra Leone

The history of the city of Freetown is clearly visible in its name. It served as a haven for the freed African and Caribbean settlers. Lieutenant John Clarkson who played an important role in the abolition of slavery in England, was one of the founders of Freetown which was established by the joint efforts of Clarkson, and African-Americans freed from the slave trade. The city is the oldest capital founded by the African-Americans. It was established on March 11, 1792.

Attractions In Freetown

Freetown has many historical attractions that remind the visitors of the slave trade active in the region such as the slave steps and the "King's Gate”. The Connaught Hospital, one of the oldest hospitals in West Africa the Cotton Tree (the city’s historic symbol), churches and mosques are other historical landmarks of Freetown. West Africa’s oldest university, the Fourah Bay College, is also located in this city. The capital of Sierra Leone also features natural attractions like white sandy beaches.

Economy Of The Capital Of Sierra Leone

Freetown acts as the economic hub of Sierra Leone. The headquarters of major national and international corporations operating in the country are mostly based in this city. The important media broadcasters of Sierra Leone are also active in Freetown. The presence of a natural harbor in the city is an added advantage and the port in Freetown handles most of the exports of Sierra Leone. Several industries are active in and around Freetown such as rice milling, fish packing, diamond cutting, cigarettes manufacture, production of beer, shoes, and paints, etc.

Demographics Of Freetown

As of 2015, Freetown had a population of 1,055,964. Muslims constitute the majority of the population but Christianity is also widely followed. The city is well-known for being religiously tolerant and people of all faiths live in perfect harmony in the city. The Krio language is Freetown’s most widely spoken language with more than 95% of the population speaking the language at home. English is also widely spoken.

Transport Infrastructure In Freetown

The road network in Freetown is limited and less developed. Railways serving the city have been closed down. The best way to access Freetown is via water taxis, ferries, speedboats, hovercrafts, and local banana boats that ply across and over the Sierra Leone River. Freetown is served by the Lungi International Airport, an international airport located about 17 km from the city in the nearby town of Lungi. Another smaller airport, the Hastings Airport is also located close to downtown Freetown and handles only smaller aircraft. The city is blessed with a large natural harbor, the largest in Africa. The harbor serves as the anchorage point of passenger and cargo ships from across the globe.